Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a delightful blend of creamy indulgence and wholesome nutrition, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike. This dish brings together tender chicken pieces, perfectly cooked penne pasta, and vibrant broccoli florets, all coated in a rich and velvety Parmesan sauce. It’s a balanced meal that delivers on both taste and nourishment.
The versatility of Chicken and Broccoli Pasta makes it a crowd-pleaser in any setting. Whether you’re preparing a hearty family dinner, meal prepping for a busy week, or serving it as a casual centerpiece for gatherings, this dish adapts beautifully. It’s simple yet satisfying, appealing to both kids and adults with its creamy texture, subtle flavors, and nutritious ingredients.
What Makes This Recipe Special
What sets this recipe apart is its balance of convenience and flavor. With just 30 minutes from start to finish, it’s a go-to option for those busy days when time is limited but the craving for a homemade meal is strong. The straightforward preparation process, requiring minimal effort and pantry staples, ensures even novice cooks can achieve delicious results.
The recipe also masterfully combines comfort food elements—such as the creamy, cheesy sauce—with health-conscious ingredients like broccoli and lean chicken breast. It’s a dish that doesn’t compromise on taste or nutrition, offering the best of both worlds. Whether you’re looking for something indulgent or something to fuel your body with wholesome goodness, Chicken and Broccoli Pasta ticks all the right boxes.
In just a short amount of time, this meal transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy creation, proving that cooking at home can be both easy and rewarding.
Ingredients Breakdown
For the Pasta
- Penne Pasta:
Penne is the ideal choice for this dish because its ridged texture and tube-like shape are perfect for holding onto the creamy Parmesan sauce. Each bite delivers a balanced combination of pasta, sauce, and other ingredients, ensuring every mouthful is flavorful. Its structure also ensures it cooks evenly and maintains its integrity when mixed with the sauce and other components. - Broccoli:
Broccoli brings vibrant color, texture, and a wealth of nutritional benefits to the dish. Rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, it adds a healthy component that complements the richness of the sauce. To prepare broccoli for this recipe, cut it into small, even-sized florets. This ensures they cook quickly and evenly when boiled with the pasta, resulting in a tender-crisp texture that enhances the dish.
For the Sauce and Chicken
- Olive Oil:
A key element in sautéing, olive oil adds subtle flavor and helps the aromatics cook evenly without burning. Its health benefits, including heart-healthy fats and antioxidants, are an added bonus. - Onion and Garlic:
These foundational aromatics infuse the dish with depth and complexity. Sautéing them releases natural sweetness, balancing the creaminess of the sauce and enriching the overall flavor profile. - Milk and Flour:
Together, milk and flour create a smooth and creamy base for the sauce. The flour acts as a thickening agent, while whole milk provides richness and body. Whisking them thoroughly ensures the sauce is lump-free and velvety. - Parmesan Cheese:
Parmesan adds a rich, umami flavor that defines the sauce. It melts seamlessly into the milk base, creating a creamy texture while adding a savory punch. - Chicken:
Chicken breast is a lean protein that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce and tender pasta. To ensure juicy, flavorful chicken cubes, cook the breasts until just done, allowing them to rest before dicing to retain moisture.
Optional Additions
To elevate the flavor profile of this dish, consider incorporating:
- Red Chili Flakes: For a subtle heat that contrasts the creaminess.
- Fresh Herbs (e.g., Basil or Parsley): Add brightness and a touch of freshness.
- Lemon Juice or Zest: A squeeze of lemon can cut through the richness of the sauce, enhancing the dish’s overall balance.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
Step 1: Cooking the Pasta and Broccoli
The foundation of this dish starts with perfectly cooked pasta and broccoli:
- Cook the Pasta Al Dente:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The salt enhances the flavor of the pasta, so use about 1-2 tablespoons for every gallon of water.
- Add the penne pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes, until al dente. This texture ensures the pasta holds its shape and absorbs the sauce without becoming mushy.
- Timing the Broccoli Addition:
- To achieve tender-crisp broccoli, add the florets to the boiling pasta water during the last 4-5 minutes of cooking. This method simplifies the cooking process by using one pot for both components, saving time and reducing cleanup.
- Draining and Setting Aside:
- Once the pasta and broccoli are cooked, drain them in a colander and rinse briefly with hot water to stop the cooking process while keeping them warm.
Step 2: Sautéing the Aromatics
Building flavor begins with sautéing aromatics:
- Sauté the Onion:
- In a large pot or deep skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent. Avoid high heat, which can scorch the onions and create bitterness.
- Add the Garlic:
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute. Garlic becomes fragrant quickly, so avoid overcooking it to prevent a bitter taste. Stir constantly to ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Making the Roux and Sauce
Creating a creamy, lump-free sauce is the heart of this dish:
- Make the Roux:
- Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour evenly over the sautéed onion and garlic. Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste, which ensures the sauce has a smooth and pleasant flavor.
- Add the Milk Gradually:
- Reduce the heat slightly and slowly pour in 2 cups of whole milk, whisking constantly. This step is crucial to prevent lumps from forming in the sauce. Continue stirring until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken, about 2-3 minutes.
- Incorporate the Parmesan Cheese:
- Once the sauce has thickened slightly, stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheese melts completely, creating a velvety and flavorful sauce. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
Step 4: Combining the Elements
Bringing everything together is the final, satisfying step:
- Add the Pasta, Broccoli, and Chicken:
- Transfer the cooked pasta, broccoli florets, and diced chicken breast into the pot with the Parmesan sauce. Stir gently to ensure every ingredient is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Warm Through:
- Cook over low heat for 2-3 minutes, just until everything is heated through. Be careful not to overcook, as this can cause the broccoli to lose its texture and the sauce to dry out.
- Reheating Tips:
- If reheating leftovers, add a splash of milk to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency. Warm over low heat, stirring gently, to prevent separation or drying out.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
Step 1: Cooking the Pasta and Broccoli
The pasta and broccoli are the building blocks of this dish, and cooking them perfectly is essential:
- Achieving Al Dente Pasta:
- Start by boiling a large pot of water. Use a ratio of about 4 quarts of water for every 8 ounces of pasta to ensure even cooking.
- Add 1-2 tablespoons of salt to the water. This seasons the pasta from the inside out, enhancing its flavor and preventing blandness.
- Add the penne pasta once the water reaches a rolling boil. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook according to package instructions (usually 8-10 minutes), ensuring the pasta retains a firm, chewy texture. Al dente pasta is ideal for this dish as it absorbs the sauce without becoming mushy.
- Timing the Broccoli Addition:
- About 4-5 minutes before the pasta finishes cooking, add the broccoli florets directly into the boiling water. This allows the broccoli to cook alongside the pasta, making the process efficient.
- Monitor the broccoli closely; it should turn bright green and become tender-crisp—cooked enough to bite into but not overly soft.
- Draining and Preparing:
- Once the pasta and broccoli are done, drain them in a colander. Shake off excess water but avoid rinsing, as this removes the starch needed to help the sauce cling to the pasta. Set aside while preparing the sauce.
Step 2: Sautéing the Aromatics
Sautéing the aromatics creates the flavor base for the dish:
- Properly Sautéing Onions:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently. The goal is to soften the onion until it becomes translucent, releasing its natural sweetness. Avoid using high heat, which can scorch the onion and create a bitter taste.
- Perfectly Fragrant Garlic:
- Add minced garlic to the onions, stirring constantly. Garlic cooks quickly, so only sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Overcooking garlic can lead to a burnt, bitter flavor, so keep an eye on it and lower the heat if needed.
Step 3: Making the Roux and Sauce
The sauce is the heart of this dish, and attention to detail here ensures a creamy and luscious result:
- Importance of Cooking the Roux:
- Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour evenly over the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. Cooking the roux properly prevents the sauce from tasting pasty and ensures a silky texture.
- Adjusting Milk Consistency:
- Gradually pour in 2 cups of whole milk, whisking constantly as you pour. Adding the milk slowly prevents lumps from forming and allows you to control the sauce’s thickness.
- Continue stirring until the mixture begins to thicken, usually 2-3 minutes. Lower the heat if the sauce thickens too quickly to avoid scorching.
- Melting Parmesan Cheese:
- Stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese once the sauce has thickened. Allow the cheese to melt completely, transforming the sauce into a smooth and creamy consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
Step 4: Combining the Elements
This step brings the dish together and ensures all components are well-blended:
- Incorporating the Pasta, Broccoli, and Chicken:
- Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, and diced chicken breast to the pot with the Parmesan sauce. Gently fold the ingredients together to evenly coat them in the creamy sauce. Avoid vigorous stirring, which can break apart the broccoli florets.
- Warming Through:
- Cook the mixture over low heat for 2-3 minutes to warm everything evenly. This step allows the flavors to meld without overcooking the broccoli or drying out the sauce.
- Reheating Without Losing Creaminess:
- For leftovers, add a splash of milk before reheating to restore the sauce’s creamy texture. Heat gently on the stove or microwave, stirring frequently to prevent separation or drying out.
Nutritional Insights and Variations
Nutritional Breakdown
Chicken and Broccoli Pasta offers a balanced combination of macronutrients, making it both nourishing and satisfying:
- Calorie Count Per Serving:
- On average, a serving (one-fourth of the recipe) contains approximately 450-500 calories. The exact amount may vary based on portion size and ingredient adjustments, such as using reduced-fat milk or additional cheese.
- Macronutrient Balance:
- Protein: The lean chicken breast provides about 25-30 grams of protein per serving, supporting muscle repair and keeping you satiated.
- Carbohydrates: The penne pasta supplies complex carbohydrates, giving the dish about 40-45 grams of carbs for sustained energy.
- Fats: Olive oil and Parmesan cheese contribute healthy fats, with approximately 15-20 grams of fat per serving, primarily from unsaturated sources.
- Health Benefits:
- Broccoli: Packed with vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, broccoli boosts immune health, supports digestion, and promotes bone health.
- Chicken Breast: A lean source of protein with low fat content, chicken aids in muscle development and weight management.
- Olive Oil: Rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, olive oil contributes to heart health and reduces inflammation.
Recipe Variations
This dish is versatile and can be customized for various dietary needs and preferences:
- Vegetarian Option:
- Replace the chicken with roasted mushrooms, which add a savory, meaty texture, or use firm tofu for a protein-rich alternative. Both options maintain the dish’s hearty appeal while catering to vegetarian diets.
- Gluten-Free Alternative:
- Swap regular penne pasta for a gluten-free version made from rice, quinoa, or lentils. For the sauce, use cornstarch as a thickener instead of flour, ensuring a smooth and gluten-free result.
- Dairy-Free Version:
- Substitute whole milk with almond milk or another plant-based milk. Replace Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative to retain the creamy, cheesy flavor.
These variations make Chicken and Broccoli Pasta adaptable to a variety of dietary needs while keeping it delicious and satisfying. Whether you’re looking to lower calories, cut out gluten, or remove dairy, these options ensure no one misses out on enjoying this comforting dish.
Tips for Success and Common Mistakes to Avoid
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Parmesan for Better Flavor:
- Grating fresh Parmesan cheese ensures a richer, creamier flavor and smoother texture in the sauce compared to pre-packaged varieties. Freshly grated cheese melts evenly, avoiding clumps and enhancing the overall taste.
- Prep All Ingredients in Advance:
- Chop the broccoli, dice the chicken, and measure out all ingredients before starting. This streamlined approach prevents delays during cooking and ensures a seamless workflow, especially for a recipe where timing is key.
Common Mistakes
- Overcooking Broccoli:
- Adding broccoli too early or cooking it for too long can lead to a mushy texture and loss of its vibrant green color. Always add broccoli during the last few minutes of pasta boiling for tender-crisp results that maintain flavor and nutrition.
- Not Whisking the Milk and Flour Mixture Thoroughly:
- When making the roux, failing to whisk continuously while adding milk can result in a lumpy sauce. To ensure a velvety consistency, pour the milk in gradually while stirring, breaking up any potential clumps immediately.
By following these tips and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a perfectly balanced and visually appealing Chicken and Broccoli Pasta dish every time.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Serving Ideas
Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is best enjoyed fresh and hot, straight from the stove. Serve it in a large bowl or platter, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper to enhance the flavors and presentation. For a touch of heat, you can add a pinch of red chili flakes on top. If desired, serve with a wedge of lemon on the side for a zesty kick that complements the creaminess of the dish.
Pairing Options
- Side Dishes:
- Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is a classic accompaniment, perfect for soaking up the creamy Parmesan sauce.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, and a tangy dressing adds a refreshing balance to the richness of the pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or asparagus provide an earthy and colorful addition to the meal.
- Beverages:
- White Wine: A glass of Chardonnay pairs wonderfully, as its crisp acidity complements the creamy sauce and enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Sparkling Water with Lemon: For a non-alcoholic option, serve sparkling water infused with lemon or lime slices for a light, refreshing contrast.
These serving suggestions and pairings ensure a complete, restaurant-quality meal that’s satisfying and perfectly balanced.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
- Yes, frozen broccoli works well as a substitute for fresh. However, it requires slight adjustments to cooking time. Add the frozen broccoli to the boiling pasta water in the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, as it cooks faster than fresh broccoli. Drain well to avoid excess water diluting the sauce.
- What’s the best way to reheat this pasta?
- To restore the creamy texture, add a splash of milk before reheating. Warm the pasta gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave, pausing to stir every 30 seconds. This prevents the sauce from drying out or separating.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Absolutely! Chicken and Broccoli Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, follow the tips above to maintain its creamy consistency.
- Is there a substitute for Parmesan cheese?
- If Parmesan isn’t available, Pecorino Romano is a great alternative with a slightly sharper taste. For a dairy-free option, use nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese alternative.
- How can I make the dish spicier?
- For those who enjoy heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce. Alternatively, serve with a drizzle of spicy chili oil for a bold kick.
Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Description
A creamy, savory pasta dish that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich Parmesan sauce. This one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for entertaining guests.
Ingredients
- For the pasta:
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups broccoli, cut into small florets
- For the sauce and chicken:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- For the chicken:
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and diced into small cubes
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the pasta and broccoli:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. During the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water. Drain the pasta and broccoli in a colander and set aside.
2️⃣ Sauté the aromatics:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic, salt, and pepper, cooking for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
3️⃣ Make the roux:
Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to eliminate the raw flour taste.
4️⃣ Prepare the sauce:
Gradually whisk in the whole milk, stirring continuously until the mixture is smooth. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly.
5️⃣ Add the cheese:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until it has melted completely, creating a creamy, smooth sauce.
6️⃣ Combine the pasta:
Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, and diced chicken to the pot with the Parmesan sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated and warmed through, about 2-3 minutes.
7️⃣ Serve:
Transfer the Chicken and Broccoli Pasta to a serving bowl. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Make it your own: Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or swap Parmesan with Asiago or Romano for a flavor twist.
- Vegetarian option: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted chickpeas.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
